April 2014

April 2014

We Don’t Need to Understand Sunday Services Everything to Believe in Something 10:00 a.m.

Adult Sunday School 9:00am I recently came across an interesting quote from Sunday School Andy Stanley, the son of the famous Charles Stanley. PK-12 Andy once observed, “We don’t need to understand ev- 10:30am erything to believe in something.” That’s a good thing to remember the next time something goes very wrong in Choir Practice our life, whether it be the loss of a loved one, the loss of Sundays 12pm Pastor Bob Zoba a job, the breakup of a marriage, or a diagnosis from our Thursdays 7pm doctor that does not sound very promising. When life deals us those sort of setbacks, we tend to scratch our heads and wonder why. Why them? Why Weekly Activities us? Why me? Ladies Bible Study Of course, there are many things in life that we do not understand Tuesdays noon-2pm and may never fully understand this side of eternity. But ours in not a pil- Small Group grimage by sight but by faith. This is a journey of testing, and we must con- @ the Rivera’s tinue to walk in faith no matter what. However, our faith is by no means a Tuesday 7pm blind faith. That is, just because we do not know everything about God, we do know something. And a prime example of this is the example of the blind Men’s Breakfast man who is healed by Jesus in John 9. After he is miraculously healed, even Wednesday 7am his neighbors question if he is really the same man who has been begging for so many years. After he assures them that he is, indeed, “the man,” he Women’s Study is interrogated two more times by the Pharisees. Since the Pharisees despise Wednesday 7pm Jesus, they come down heavy on the blind man to explain who Jesus is, why Prayer Service he would heal on the Sabbath, and what do his actions signify? Under the Thursday 7pm load of such heavy prosecution by the religious elite, he stands strong. In fact, I love the classic response of this poor man, blind from birth, and never theologically trained. He says, in so many words, “I don’t know what you Second Union Church are saying, or what you are trying to argue, but all I know is this: I was blind Ave. Apolo esq. Mileto and now I see!” Guaynabo, PR 00969 787-720-4423 In other words, even the Pharisees couldn’t argue with the man’s ex- secondunion.org perience with Jesus. So too, even the most extreme skeptics that we encoun- ter cannot argue with our own personal encounter with Christ. So too, when Rev. Robert Zoba April 2 2014

we face the fiery darts and fearsome doubts from the Evil One, we too can respond like the blind man, namely, “I don’t have all the answers to life’s questions, but this I know: once I was spiritually blind, but now I see. Once I was lost and now I am found. “ In other words, we don’t have to understand everything to believe in something, because God has shown us enough of Himself in Christ so that we can just trust him with the rest. I hope we can take that to heart because even though we see through a glass darkly in this life, we see well enough through the glass of our present reality to know that an even more glorious reality stands beyond this one. May we fix our eyes on that more permanent reality and run the race with perseverance. Blessings!

What We Love About 2UC

The Droz family enjoys coming to 2UC because...

There are many reasons why we enjoy coming to 2UC. First there is Potluck Sunday which is amazing! :) Then all the different ministries and activities that you can be a part of like Sunday School for our youth, Men’s Break- fast, Women’s Ministries, Couples Ministries, Heart 2 Heart, Bazaars, Bible studies, prayer meetings, etc.

However, the main reasons we enjoy coming to our church remain our Pastor, his message of the Gospel and the LOVE we receive from our extended 2UC family. We hope this church brings you the happiness and love is has brought my family for the last 10 years.

Blessings from Pito, Jossette, Sofia & Sebastian Droz

Second Union Church Council & Staff

Pastor Property Women’s Ministries Team Leader Rev. Robert Zoba Juan Gonzalez Anita Rodriguez

President Christian Education Luis Alberto Rivera Elsy Perez Office Manager Mabel Varela Vice President Staff-Congregation Relations John Alberts Efraín Droz Minister of Music Luis Manuel Tirado Treasurer Membership Stan Pinkerton Eze Ebube Choir Director Carlos Rivera Secretary Fellowship Ari Tester Christie Zoba Newsletter & Website Editor Christie Zoba Worship Nominating Maylie Colón Carlos Garcia de la Noceda

Outreach Forward Planning Julio Rivera Joe Calcolli 3 Baptism April 2014

Sunday, March 16, 2014 was a very spe- cial day for the body of Christ at Second Union Church. At the Escambrón Beach, eight people were professed their faith in Jesus Christ through the sacrament of baptism. It was a very special moment, not only for those being baptized, but for those who were present to witness this momentous occasion.

As songs were sung and prayers were offered, the sponsors of each candidate spoke of God’s love and the way He was at work. God provided a backdrop which could not be outdone by any artist, as those gathered gave glory and honor to the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit.

We lift up those who were baptized, Ramón, Mario, Eddie, Alani, Leilani, Chris and Arman- do, and we pledge to pray for them and encourage them in their walk with Jesus. Praise be to God! April 4 2014 Did You Know . . . ?

Madelyn Vega presented her book, “Letters to my Isia And Jean Vila write: we moved Son”, at the University of Puerto Rico Law School, to Orlando in September of 2013. her Alma Mater. Former Governor Rafael Hernan- Our precious new baby Felipe Car- dez Colon was the keynote speaker. Congratula- lo was born on De- tions, Madelyn! (see article on page 9) Her son, Xavi cember 26, 2013. has just been admitted to the University Gardens Ignacio turns 7 in High School, and her husband, Raymond pre- April and he is a very miered his wonderful symphony for the closin,g happy first grade concert of the Casals Festival. He dedicated the student. We visit an symphony to Madelyn his wife for their 20th wed- awesome Christian ding anniversary. church in our town, Vista Church!! Loida Spivak’s sister, Judith Velilla, works in a poor barrio with preteen kids and they completed a mod- Brianne Rivera writes: Noel and I are still living in el of Nehemiah’s Wall which was on display at 2UC North Carolina and enjoying being close to family. in March. (see page 11) (Thanks to Steve & Loida and Chris & Mike Strong for transporting it.) He’s working as a contractor for IBM and we’re pray- ing he’ll be hired permanently this quarter. We’ll be Brian Cole writes: We are still in Valencia and hav- moving into a new house in June that will give us a ing a great time here. The family is healthy and hap- little extra space. Félix will be 4 in June and Lionel py still loving our lives here on the Mediterranean, (Leo) and Noemí (Noe) turned 2 in November and are though we do think of Puerto Rico very often. Our talking SO much now! daughter Elena is now 11 and thriving in her school And we found out we’re and social life, and is involved in piano lessons and expecting baby #4 in ballet. The two twins, Gabriel and Clara, are now 18 October (we should months old and are a joy. Iris is loving her time with find out the gender this them and the experience again of being a stay-at- home mom, while still doing a substantial amount week). I’ve attached a of work remotely for her father’s company in PR. picture of the kids - if it My job at Berklee in Valencia is going very well and doesn’t go through, let things are progressing as we want. Our students are me know and I’ll shrink happy, the administration in Boston is happy, and it down in size! some really great music and learning is taking place here in our school - so I have no complaints! Anna McGuire Johndrow writes: we will be in Puer- to Rico at the end of April to care for grandkids while John and Sue Burch continue to serve through Mis- Laura and husband travel to the jazz fest in New Or- sion to the World. We provide member care and leans. We have other news as well; Don’s son Na- training for our missionaries. We will be leading retreats and pastoring missionaries in East Asia, than and wife of a year will be having their first child Thailand, Spain and Dominican Republic. Some of in August. Just found out that it is a boy! We closed these missionaries are from the store in February and are now living the life of closed countries where it is the retired. Poor but happy! Of course, open to any dangerous to be a Believ- opportunities on the beautiful island of Puerto Rico. er. In addition we will help lead several training events Brenda Ferrer writes: I’ve been getting two of my for new missionary candi- great-grandchildren to and from school daily, and I’ve dates before they go to the been busy working with a team of wonderful Chris- field. We enjoy this min- tian ladies who are dedicating many hours in prepa- istry of preparing and car- ing for God’s servants who ration for the upcoming Women’s Walk #48 to Em- work in stressful cross-cul- maus that will be held in Aibonito, PR from April 3 to tural settings helping them 6, 2014. It will be a blessing to all who attend. to apply the Blessings of the Gospel to their situa- tion. Seven 2UCers were baptized in March at the Escam- brón Beach! Jesse Sargent is now living in Tampa, Florida? (see his letter to the congregation on the final page) 5 April Did You Know . . . ? 2014

Susan Pagés writes: Hello everyone! I know you During the month of April, Loida Velilla and Steve Spiv- stay in touch with Hector as he visits 2UC when ak, the Bayamon Vaqueros of 2UC, will be working, con- he is on the island. Thought I would send a little ferencing and traveling through western Turkey. Steve is note regarding the rest of our family. Danielle was invited to speak at an international conference on “the recently hired by Coach to be their assistant man- Changing World of Standards and Standardization” which ager at the “Gardens Mall” in West Palm Beach. focuses on the research & development, innovation and She is thrilled with her new position! Hecti and exports involving the Turkish textiles, clothing and apparel Nicole are well and living in Atlanta. Hecti con- industry sectors. The conference venue is Bursa, Turkey tinues to work for Brandmovers. He was in Brazil (between Istanbul and Izmir). Bursa has one of the largest the end of March, studying for his MBA at the San mosques in Turkey, but also once housed an ancient Jewish Paulo branch of Manchester University. As for me, community of Sephardic immigrants. They fled the Span- I continue to work in the Miami market. My most ish and Portuguese inquisition; to be skillfully welcomed recent project was working with a skin care lab into the Ottoman Empire of that time. From Bursa they’ll called Kira Labs. I was involved with an anti-aging travel to Izmir and the Mediterranean coast, whereby lie project that involved wonderful products, as well the Roman ruins of Ephesus. This was a city of great in- as lots of before and after photos. I hope to see terest to the apostles and Paul, and a vital, early Christian many of you soon when I visit the island end of community. We’ll reread Paul’s Letter to the Ephesians as April, for Hector’s 40th HS reunion! we stand on that very ground. On the route is Canakkale, site of the Trojan Wars and a giant replica of the so-called Janette Quiles has a birthday this week... on April Trojan Horse. Indeed we’ll be traveling by auto, not a 6th? horse! Loyda writes: “We hope to again see the blessed 2UC congregants, Pastor and PR aficionados by the time of From Don and Joanne Marx: Our work in Afghan- ending these perennial snows. Abrazos to all!” istan has taken most of our time, and will continue to do so until late summer. It’s quite an adventure The 2UC “Paloma and José” team comprised of Anita, Ca- worthy of a book someday. When we aren’t in Ka- diz, Pastor Bob, Christie, David & Laurie Yost and guests, bul, we are at the farm and building things. On Conchi, Jessica, and Adonis, joined together to partici- April 23 we have some friends coming to the farm pate in the 5K Walk for Multiple Sclerosis organized by for five days, including Willi and Wilfredo, to help our very own, Paloma Aymat. us plant 740 grape vines in our new vineyard to be. Plants don’t wait for the convenience of our schedule, so we finally locked in a week to do that. Jojo and I will take our first vacation in three years next week to spend 10 days in Lisbon and Malaga, Spain, part of the time with my brother and his wife. After planting it’s back to Kabul. It’s a mission of the heart and we know we are making a difference. April 5 is election day in Afghanistan and we’ll see Karzai exit and a change in politics, we hope.

William Foster just celebrated his second birthday! Happy Birth- day, William!

Christie Zoba was able to spend a few days with her son, J.J. and her mom in Florida. J.J. will be graduating from SMU in May!! April 2014 Vacation Bible School 2014 6

Ages: Ozzy Pre-school 3-5 Iggy Camp 6-12 Crew leaders 13 and up

New friends ,Amazing experiments, Untamed games, Lip-smacking snacks, Surprising adventures & Incredible music Tuesday June 3,2014– Saturday June 7,2014

https://www.groupvbspro.com/vbs/ez/secondunion

VBS Donation $30.00 per family (up to 2 T- Shirts, additional kids paid for their T-shirts)

VBS outreach - Water for India & Young Life Puerto Rico April 7 Vacation Bible School 2014 2014

VBS Staff:

Mabel Varel VBS Director 2014 Alysha Jackson Youth VBSDirector “Zoo Zone” Dalia Gonzalez Pre-school VBS Director Ramón Chinea Untamed Games Anita Rodriguez Critters Cafe Cadiz Rodriguez Sing & Play Stampede Elsy Perez Imagination Station Rosa Trinidad Craft & Play Ozzy Park Isabel Fernandez Games Ozzy Park Laurie Foster Bible Adventures Ozzy Park Christie Zoba One of a Kind Bible Adventures Marietta Benero VBS Set Up & Decoration Jorge Figueroa Spotlight VBS Sebastian DroZ Spotlight VBS Ricardo Nazario Spotlight VBS

Crew leaders: Ricardo Perez, Joshua Estremera, Mario Medina, Daniel Rivera, Sara Rivera, Paul Palermo ( Union Church), Paola Navarro, Louis Navarro, Sariemma Mendez, Sariana Mendez, Jean Marco Montalvo, Julian Montalvo & Carlos Andres Diaz

Volunteers: Risa Tobin, Josette Droz, Marie Angie Melendez, Gigliola M Olguin, Pastor Bob, Thelma Rivera, Troop 515, Irma Torres

Prayer Warriors for VBS: Elsy Perez, Robert Zoba, Anita Rodriguez, Thelma Rivera, Irma Torres, Silvette Candelaria, Marie Angie Melendez, Christie Zoba, Rose de Jesus, Dalia Gonzalez Mayra Chipi, Risa Tobin, David & Laurie Yost, Cadiz Rodriguez & Mabel Varela

The following materials are needed: •soda or water size •foam •Christmas lights •pool noodles •cellophane paper plastic bottles •tissue paper •gift wrapping •animal pictures •fabrics with •kiddie pool paper different textures

VBS is for the entire Church family, we need mentors(20), painters, crew leaders(20), Station leaders(8) **Community service hours for school will be granted** VBS Preparation Schedule Saturday, April 12 1-5pm Crew Leaders Saturday, April 26 9am-noon Crew Leaders Friday, May 2 5-8pm Crew Leaders Friday, May 9 1-4pm Crew Leaders Friday, May 16 5-8pm Crew Leaders Saturday, May 24 9am-noon Crew Leaders Saturday, May 24 1-6pm All Staff & volunteers Decoration Day Monday, June 2 8am-finish All Staff & volunteers Final Set Up Day April 8 2014 FIVE WOMEN IN JESUS’ GENEALOGY

“We“...believe in the plenary inspiration of the Bible, the idea that all of the Bible is inspired by God, not just our favorite parts, we therefore believe that even the genealogies of the Bible are inspired by God.” Excerpt from Pastor Robert Zoba’s sermon “The Oft-Forgotten Man,” on the last Sunday in Advent, 2013.

“I don’t know about you, but it is difficult for me to get excited over genealogies in the Bible filled with names I can barely read and scarcely pronounce. I have the inclination to skip hurriedly over the names and move on to more inspirational reading. Well, the truth of the matter is that “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God...” (2 Tim. 3:16), and that all includes long lists of dry, unfamiliar, unpronounceable names. “In His unfathomable wisdom, God included the names of five women in Jesus’ genealogy as found in the gospel of Matthew, and some with quite shady pasts I might add. Their inclusion in Messiah’s blood- line is neither accidental nor incidental, but of a divine purpose. It is rare to find women in a genealogy given Israel’s patriarchal society. Jewish bloodlines always dealt with the father, the son, the grandson, and so forth. No records were kept concerning the mother. “With the exception of Mary, each of the other women in Jesus’ bloodline are connected with some great sin. The women listed in Jesus’ genealo- gy are as follows: Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, “her who had been the wife of Uriah” (Bathsheba), and Mary, the mother of our Lord Jesus Christ. What is so strange about this group of women, you may ask? For starters, both Tamar and Rahab were prostitutes. Ruth was a heathen, a Moabitess, a Gentile as was Rahab the harlot, and Bathsheba an adulteress. Can it get more scandalous than this: two prostitutes, two Gentiles, and one adulteress? The perfect, sinless Son of God, the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world, had not one but four women with serious moral flaws in their character in His royal bloodline. How can it be? What does it mean?

“God had a divine purpose since eternity past for including these women in Messiah’s genealogy. He purposefully and deliberately included them as a reminder to us that Christ “made sacrifice for all hu- manity.” He poured out His blood on Calvary as an atonement for the sins of the world. Yes, He died for all and He died for each. He came not only for the righteous, the pure in heart, the faithful followers of the Mosaic Law, but also for “the sinner, the outcast, the prostitute, and even Gentiles.” The world was in desperate need of a Savior. Messiah came preaching the gospel, the good news of salvation, and made it available to all people everywhere. Even though many rejected Him and sought every opportunity to kill Him, and still reject His gift of salvation and seek to obliterate His name from the pages of history, He is still the only Savior anyone will ever have for “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved” (Acts 4:12).” The KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS stepped down from glory over 2000 years ago in the form of a baby, the Word made flesh, and came into the world without the usual fanfare which accompanies the birth of royalty. He was born in the little unknown town of Bethlehem in a stable for animals, not in a palace. His cradle was a feeding trough. He was clothed not in royal garments, but wrapped in swaddling cloth. There were no nobles or princes present at His birth, only beasts of burden were in attendance. His parents were not royalty but peasantry, folks of humble origin. Smelly, uncouth shepherd’s by today’s standards were the first to witness His miraculous birth, not emperors or royalty. He deliberately gave up the glory He deserved, both in heaven and on earth, that we might have eternal life. Yes, he came for you and me, but He also came for the Muslims, the Buddhist, Lady Gaga, Madonna, Bill Maher, Mother Teresa, Billy Graham, Martin Luther, and Christians of all generations. “For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:11).

Won’t you welcome the Christ Child into your heart? Won’t you welcome Him as Lord and Savior of your life? “Even so, come Lord Jesus” (Rev. 22:20). Contributed by Mayra Chipi (part 2 of the series) 9 Madelyn Vega Dedicates New Book April6 2014

On Friday, March 14, Madelyn Vega’s new book, “Letters to My Son”, was officially presented at her alma mater, the University of Puerto Rico School of Law. Former Puerto Rico Governor, Rafael Hernadez Colón, addressed the gathering.

A healthy contingent from Second Union Church was on hand to participate in this joyous event. Congratulations, Madelyn!

Raymond, Governor Hernandez, Xavi & Madelyn

New Members

To the glory of God, on March 9, 2014, five people joined Second Union as members of the church: Osiris, Mario, Nina, Michael and Christopher. A week later on March 16, 2014, seven people were baptized into the Body of Christ in the ocean off Escambron public beach by our Pastor, Bob Zoba. Praise God!

As we unite as a people of diverse ethnic, cultural background as God’s willing disciples to live out the confes- sion of our faith: Jesus Christ is Lord and Savior, we maintain our faithfulness as we continue in a loving spirit in our Christian worship, fellowship, education and service as we celebrate our diversity as a people and in unity of the Holy Spirit.

In the proclamation of the love of Christ and the Good News our fellowship welcomes, with open arms, all to come to know, follow and grow in Jesus Christ under the guidance of the written Word and in unity in the common purpose to lift up Jesus Christ in his vineyard, Second Union. All those who would like to be part of us can do so by the declaration of faith, or transfer from their home church. See Eze Ebube, Membership Chair or Pastor Bob. April 2014 Backpack Program 10

Through the Backpack program, we provide 30 elementary school students with nutritious meals for the weekend. Many of the parents have reported that their children who participate in the program are performing better in school and they have noted marked improvement in their behavior. We are very grateful to Yoav Cohen, as he has been supporting the program by donating fresh fruit and vegetables. Yoav is one of the largest growers on the island, and his company is the largest exporter of mangoes! He has very generously donated boxes of papaya, tomatoes, zucchini, yellow squash and cu- cumbers. The parents of the backpack students are very grateful. We would also like to thank all those who have donated products for the program - we know who you are, and we are very appreciative! Next time you are at the supermarket, why don’t you pick up a few cans of tuna, vienna sausages, or pink beans - they would be welcome additions! We especially want to thank the women and men of Second Union who have been assisting with this program. It is a constant commitment, and we are blessed to have so many willing hands and feet! We are also counting on the prayers of those of you who signed up to be prayer pals for the students participating in the program. Remember to check for their birthdays and try to include a card to let them know you are praying for them. You can send them a note at any time!

Wednesday Night Bible Study @ Anita’s

Wednesday evenings at my house are such fun. Women come from a day of work and we open bibles together, digging into God’s Word, read- ing together and asking tough questions. It is a time of laughter and tears as we share what God has done in our week, and as we pray together for those concerns that have been pressing on our hearts. Together we come before the throne of Grace and find sweet peace and joy. There is nothing like sharing this walk of faith with someone who loves Jesus, too.

There is always room for more around the table. Have you noticed how people from Second Union have a way of creating a family atmosphere whenever they gather? Join us; your spot at the table is ready. See you Wednesdays at 7pm. Anita Rodriguez

(The Wednesday evening Ladies Bible study is currently studying the book of Romans)

CASTING CALL

TO: Singers, musicians , Sound Techs, All interested people.

I am producing a Christmas CD, featuring the talent on our church family. A meeting will be held Sunday after church Apr. 6th 2014. We are planning to record a Christmas CD which will be a classic work of art. This CD can be sold at our Christmas Bazaar for years to come. All profits will go to con- tinue G-ds work.

It’s going to be great fun.

See brother Joe Calcolli for details 11 The Gift of Blessing: Christian Ed April 2014

I believe that blessing your children is essential to strengthening the parent-child relationship. The most important elements to be considered in creating a blessing for your children is, first and foremost, to keep God in the center of your lives. It is important to pray for them and pray with them. Another important element is to lead by example. My children are witnesses to the type of relationship I have with Jesus. They see how I try to work hard on maintaining my relationship with Jesus and they know that when I bless them, I mean it. They know that my heart is sincere. You may be wondering how you can bless your children. Well, I bless my children by being very af- fectionate with them on a daily basis. I hug them multiple times throughout the day and I tell them I love them every single day. I consider myself my children’s biggest fan. I tell them that they can do anything their heart desires as long as they have God in their heart and depend on Him in all they do.

Heartfelt Thanks to the Sunday School Teachers in March

Ari & Nicole Tester Cherish Lexvold Sara & Lorraine Rivera Jo Ellen Ramos Fernando Bentz David Benson

A Model: Nehemiah Rebuilds the Wall of Jerusalem

A Children’s Biblical Learning Project

This unique and impressive project which was on display in the Fellowship Hall during the month of march, focused on involvement by a group of children and teens from Bay- amon, Puerto Rico. It explores the Biblical history of Nehe- miah, in rebuilding the city walls in Jerusalem. The project culminated with these children producing a large, realis- tic table-top model of this Biblical story and building work from the prophetic book of Nehemiah.

This delightful and intriguing, 4x3x3 foot model of the Tem- ple walls during its reconstruction is considered a museum piece. The realistic model is both a delight to view, as well a superb example of engaging youth in projects of Biblical learning and history. The 20-25 children who participated were gathered in from a local barrio and organized into this artwork project.

The inspiration for this effort came from Judith Velilla, a re- tired art teacher and sister of Loida Velilla.

Thanks to Mike and Chris Strong for their invaluable help in trans- porting the model!

Nehemiah 6: 15-16 So the wall was finished on the twenty-fifth day of the month Elul, in fifty-two days. And when all our enemies heard of it, all the nations around us were afraid[b] and fell greatly in their own esteem; for they perceived that this work had been accom- plished with the help of our God. April 2014 Dresses for Haiti: A Testimony 12

Some of you may know Marilyn Siebert, she is a fairly recent member of our Tuesday lunch- time Bible Study. Marilyn and her husband and children moved to Puerto Rico over six months ago from California. You may have run into her at our Christmas Bazaar, where she had a table where she sold American Girl doll dresses (handmade by herself!).

Several years ago, God touched Marilyn’s heart and impressed upon her a desire to help girls in Haiti. She learned about an or- phanage that was run by a Christian couple, and she took the opportunity to visit them in Haiti. While she was there, Marilyn being a seamstress, taught the girls how to sew simple dresses. At the same time, she communicated that they should in turn, make the dresses to give away. She was heart- ened by the great desire these orphaned girls had to help others.

God kept these girls in Marilyn’s heart, and she shared her powerful testimony with the women at Bible Study. She told us about her desire to return and to take simple dresses with her to give to others in need. After hearing her talk about these dresses, Rose de Jesus, a master seamstress, offered to make a few new dresses which she then brought to Bible Study to show Marilyn. It was truly an an- swer to prayer, and both Marilyn and Rose were so excited at the prospect of making additional dresses. Rose mentioned this idea to some fellow sewing friends, and before you know it, she had a cadre of women who wanted to take part in helping make dresses.

The Holy Spirit was clearly at work empowering these generous women, and within a few weeks, just prior to Marilyn’s planned return visit, the women had made so many dresses that Marilyn had to get a new suitcase to deliver them with her. Marilyn went to Haiti with over 100 dresses!

This is such a testimony to God’s provision and His blessing on peo- ple’s plans for furthering His kingdom. God blesses us so that we can bless others, and there is no mistaking that this is certainly the case here.

We give honor and glory to God, and we thank him for using Rose, her fel- low seamstresses and Marilyn in this powerful way. And we pray for the little girls wearing these dresses in the picture on the left, may the love that flowed through Marilyn open their eyes to Jesus’ love and grace.

You can help the children of this orphanage by purchasing a beautifully illus- trated book entitled, Mika. It is a moving story about a young Haitian orphan and her relationship with Jesus. Books are available from Marilyn or Rose de Jesus.

And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.’ Matthew 25:40 13 April In Memoriam: Ruth Lutrell 2014

Ruth Tidik was born in Lakewood, Ohio on August 22, 1926, one of six children of parents from Austria and Czechoslovakia who became citizens of the United States. She went to be with the Lord on March 15, 2014, sur- rounded by her family and loved ones.

Ruth Luttrell was known as “Mama” Ruth to many for her loving missionary work in the Caribbean, which spanned many decades and different coun- tries. Together with her husband, the late Dr. Donald D. Luttrell, she found- ed Calvary Evangelistic Mission, Inc., which today encompasses the Bible Correspondence School of the Caribbean and The Rock Radio Network (WBMJ AM-1190 San Juan, WIVV AM 1370 Vieques, WCGB AM 1060 Jua- na Díaz). After high school she studied secretarial sciences while employed as a clerk. She married Donald D. Luttrell after his discharge from the U.S. Army in 1946, and they continued their college education together. She studied at the Baptist Bible Institute in Cleveland, Ohio (now Cedarville College) and at Bob Jones University. She served with her husband in assistant pastorates in Ohio and Florida, and in Christian education and youth work while he studied for his Master’s Degree in Education and Doctor of Divinity Degree. Their children are Janet Louise, David John and Donna Jean (Nita), and grandchildren Hol- lie Zambrano, Michael and Matthew Luttrell.

In 1952 the Luttrell’s started their missionary educational and mass media work in Puerto Rico, the Caribbean and Latin America. They founded the parent organization, Calvary Evangelistic Mission, Inc., in 1953; the Bi- ble Correspondence School of the Caribbean in 1954 (over 24,000 enrolled students in the West Indies, other countries and extension schools in Guatemala, India and Myanmar); and Missionary Radio WIVV AM-1370 on Vieques in 1956 (covers Eastern PR, the Virgin and Leeward Islands). In 1963 the Mission’s headquarters was moved to San Juan. WBMJ AM-1190 in San Juan was acquired and started full-time Christian programming in 1986. WBMJ’s programming is now simulcast with WIVV’s over ?The Rock Radio Network. The purpose of the Mission is to win, train, challenge, and motivate people to live and work for Jesus Christ, based on 2 Timothy 2:2 “And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.”

During the first eleven years the Luttrell’s lived on Vieques Island, Ruth helped manage the government out- patient clinic while her husband traveled with Youth for Christ International. As a representative of Child Evangelism Fellowship International, she organized and taught child evangelism classes to leaders for several years on three islands. She served at the Mission’s Servicemen’s Center and with her husband in the civilian chaplaincy at Camp García for nine years, and taught in the Mission’s Elementary School.Through the years, other services to the Mission included serving as Secretary-Treasurer and Secretary of CEM?s Board of Direc- tors, as CEM’s Administrator and Manager, Radio Programming Director, editor of National Leaders materials and BCS lessons, and Building Complex Manager. As Co-Founder, Mrs. Luttrell has filled the position of CEO and President since Dr. Luttrell’s demise in May, 1987.

Ruth Luttrell participated with her husband in Mission Methods Seminars in various countries in a world-wide work tour. She helped edit his book, “God?s Great Commission ... And You.” Ruth participated in the annual National Religious Broadcasters Conventions from 1968 onward. In October, 1987, she was appointed to fill her late husband’s term on NRB’s Board of Directors, and, was subsequently re-elected. She was the Women’s Prayer Chairman for the International Congress on World Evangelization in Puerto Rico and the Lesser Antilles Islands, and for years was the area representative and is a consultant for Christian Women’s Clubs. “Mama Ruth” originated and hosted the daily Update Program on the Network. The Luttrell’s have received awards for service in Christian ministry, missionary radio, social and civic work from various organizations and gov- ernments. She is included in her husband’s listing in Who’s Who in America, and individually in Who’s Who of American Women. In February, 2006 Ruth was awarded the “Milestone Award” at the National Religious Broadcasters Convention for broadcasting over 50 years. Her greatest desire was to bring honor and glory to Almighty God as His faithful servant, ministering to mankind. April 2014 HOLY WEEK EVENTS AT SECOND UNION CHURCH 14

Palm Sunday

The Palm Sunday service is a special celebration that inau- gurates Holy Week and commemorates Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem in the days before His passion. Join us at 10am as we enter into Holy Week with palms, songs and celebration in our traditional worship service.

Maundy Thursday

Our Maundy Thursday service at 6pm commemorates the Last Supper that Jesus celebrated with his disciples; includ- ing the institution of the sacrament of communion and the washing of the disciples’ feet by our Lord.

In our special way here at Second Union Church, we remem- ber this moment with a special meatless potluck dinner, a special dramatic performance and worship. Join us for this innovative service.

GOOD Good Friday The Good Friday service at 7pm is a time to reflect on Je- sus’ suffering, crucifixion and death. We remember Jesus’ FRIDAY self-sacrificing love and the lengths to which God is willing to go in order to have a relationship with us.

Easter Sunday: He Is Risen

Easter is the holiest celebration of the Christian year. We gather to remember and celebrate Jesus’ resurrection. It is a day of hope and joy, for we recognize that, in his resurrec- tion, Jesus has overcome the forces of this world, thereby and allowing us access to God the Father. We worship on Easter Sunday at 10am. 15 What’s Going On @2UC April 2014

Join the Choir!

Photo Session April 13 and April 27 Following the Worship Service

We would like to make sure that everyone’s photos are on the Second Union Church Family Bulletin Board. This is a great op- portunity for a family or an individual portrait. We’ll send you a copy of the photo - it will be a keepsake! Thanks to our in-house photographer, Lizzette Kelley!

Spanish Classes @ 2UC Tuesdays 10am

Does pulling up to the speaker at the drive-through window cause you to break out in a cold sweat? Do you have a mini-meltdown every time you hear Spanish on the other end of the phone? Are you more than slightly perturbed that you have spent hundreds (or maybe thousands) of dollars on Spanish classes, yet you still struggle ordering break- fast at the panaderia?

Well if you answer yes to any of these questions, you are not alone! Join others who are enthusiastic about improving their command of Spanish. It is a very relaxed and non-threatening environment, and through a variety of task-based activities, you will use your Spanish and realize you can communicate! All that is nec- essary to join is knowing the basics of pronunciation and simple verb conjugation. There is no charge for the classes, so you have absolutely nothing to lose.

If you are just a beginner, and have never really taken Spanish classes, Blanca San Juan has offered to teach a basic course at the same time, but meeting in the Conference room at church. For more information on either group, please contact Christie Zoba [email protected].

Hasta pronto! April 2014 A message from Jesse Sargent

Hello Brothers and Sisters in Christ. I am enjoying Florida and the company of my wife. Ivonne was blessed by God with a great job that she really enjoys. Thanks be to our God. Its good to be able to communicate verbally and over the phone. Buying a newspaper and being able to read and enjoy the news and sports is a plea- sure for me. Saint Petersburg has beautiful beaches and Ivonne and I have been to some and will be going to a lot more. The complex where we live has a couple pools with big barbecue grills you can use and a workout cen- ter, really nice club house and recreational center. There is a care group that organizes free breakfasts, cook outs, dog activities, yea they have a fenced in dog area with benches, water for baths and drinking an unlimited bags for cleaning up after your pet. Our 11 year old black Pug, Kiki is really enjoying his new home and this designated pet area. There is a wooden bridge over a wetlands area that is beautiful, with all kinds of protected birds an even a small crocodile at least the one I have seen is small. There are areas on the elevated bridge/walkway that you can sit and pray and meditate. Ivon’s Mother sold her apartment in Guaynabo and is moving to Naples (about two hours from St.Pete) to live and be close to her son, friends and family. All the family has moved from PR now except our stepson at- tending engineering school in Mayaguez. Ivonne has family and friends all over South FL.. My sister and her family live in North Port, FL and its about 1.5 hrs. from St. Pete. I am now closer to my daughter and grandchildren that I love to visit in Albuquerque, NM.. I also like the idea of being able to go or be taken to the hospital, knowing that I will understand the medical people and they will understand me or my family members. I am close enough now that my daughter can fly to be with me if I need her and that is a blessing and my sister is close now as I mentioned before. These things are much more important when you are al- most 71 years old (26th next month). God has blessed me with great heath and many more blessings than I deserve and I thank Him everyday and love Him with all my heart, soul, mind and strength, Amen. We are shopping for a church home and it reminds me of my son in law’s brother’s situation. Robert my son in law’s brother James is shopping for a life partner (old school WIFE). James can not find anyone he wants to marry and he says its because no one measure’s up to his brother’s wife, my daughter, Scarlett. The reason I use this example is because I can not find a “Body of Christ”, (members, church family) and Shep- herd, (Pastor, Priest, Rev.) like Pastor Bob, whom I love and respect so much!!!!!!! His wife Christie is such a blessing also!!!!!!!!!!! Well to close on this church newspaper article, Jesse’s Epistle, Go Cats (Kentucky Wildcats, NCAA Basketball Tournament)!! I miss you Pastor Bob, all my friends, seafarers and ministry and I ask your contin- ued prayers to Our God, Our Lord Jesus Christ and Our Holy Spirit to guide me and give me the wisdom to know what I am to do to serve HIM in Florida, Amen. Blessings, Chaplain Jesse David Sargent